Alishan Hiking Guide: Discovering the Best Trails for Hikers in Alishan
Alishan is one of Taiwan's most iconic destinations, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural significance. Following the devastating earthquake in April 2024, which significantly affected Taroko, Alishan has attracted even more visitors.
This guide is designed for those who prefer the tranquility of hiking rather than the typical sightseeing crowds. It introduces Alishan and highlights the best hiking trails that unveil the area's hidden wonders and unique charm.
Whether planning a dedicated adventure in Alishan or expanding your trip while tackling Yushan (Jade Mountain)—Taiwan's highest peak—this guide will inspire you to explore and connect with Alishan's stunning trails.
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Table of Contents:
- 1. Exploring Alishan: The Greater Alishan Area and Its Core in the Forest Recreation Zone
- 2. Taiwan Hikes' Top Picks for Hiking Trails Along Alishan Highway (Provincial Highway 18) and Alishan Forest Recreation Area
- 3. Alishan Seasonal Highlights
- 4. Alishan Hiking Guide: Plan Your Trip with Transport, Stays & Itineraries (Coming Soon)
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1. Exploring Alishan: The Greater Alishan Area and Its Core in the Forest Recreation Zone
First and foremost, Alishan is not a mountain, just like Yangmingshan is not a mountain either. Although the Chinese name for Alishan includes the character for "mountain" (shan), it actually refers to this entire region, much like Yangmingshan.
The Alishan Mountain Range 阿里山山脈 is one of the five major mountain ranges in Taiwan. However, unlike the Hai'an Mountain Range 海岸山脈, none of the mountains in the Alishan Mountain Range exceed 3,000 meters above sea level.
Government Agencies Named After Alishan
According to a Facebook post by the Chiayi Branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, there are 10 government agencies named after Alishan. To keep this brief, I will focus on those related to your adventures in Alishan.
- Alishan National Scenic Area of Tourism Administration 交通部觀光署阿里山國家風景區管理處. This agency is underneath the Tourism Administration and oversees tourism in Alishan. Its jurisdiction includes Fanlu Township 番路鄉, Chuchi Township 竹崎鄉, Meishan Township 梅山鄉, and Alishan Township 阿里山鄉.
- Alishan National Forest Recreation Area 阿里山國家森林遊樂區. Managed by the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, this area is a popular tourist destination. Admission tickets are required.
- Alishan Forest Railway and Cultural Heritage Office 阿里山林業鐵路及文化資產管理處. This office manages the forest railway, where you can book train tickets.
- Alishan Train Station 阿里山火車站. This station is the departure point for trains to Zhushan Station, known for its sunrise views, as well as to Zhaoping Station and Shenmu Station. It's also the destination for taking the forest train from Chiayi.
- Alishan Township 阿里山鄉. This township is an administrative division under Chiayi County.
- Alishan Highway (Provincial Highway 18) 阿里山公路 or 省道臺18線. This highway stretches 108.6 km (67.5 miles) from the Taiwan High-speed Railway Chiayi Station to Tataka in Yushan National Park.
- Chiayi Branch, Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency 農業部林業及自然保育署嘉義分署. Although this branch is not named after Alishan, it is responsible for managing the national forests in Yulin County 雲林縣, Chiayi County 嘉義縣, Tainan County 台南縣, and Kaohsiung City 高雄市. This is also the agency where you can apply for a permit to hike the Mianyue Line.
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The Broader Alishan Region According to Alishan National Scenic Area
According to Alishan National Scenic Area Headquarters, there are three main recreation systems in Alishan: Northwest Corridor Area 西北廊道地區, Provincial Highway 18 (Alishan Highway) 阿里山公路沿線, and Tsou Culture Area 鄒族文化部落.
While these recreational systems might seem complicated, for tourists traveling by bus or car from Chiayi, the Alishan Highway is the primary route to explore the breathtaking landscapes of mountains, forests, tea plantations, and the famous sea of clouds. Taking public transport is also my preference to enjoy these trails during my visit to Alishan.
This post will mainly focus on the trails along the Alishan Highway. I might share more about the trails and mountains in the Northwest Corridor Area and Tsou Culture Area in the future.
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2. Taiwan Hikes' Top Picks for Hiking Trails Along Alishan Highway (Provincial Highway 18) and Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
If you visit the websites for the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, you will discover numerous trails to explore. Below are details of the trails I've hiked to help you plan your itinerary.
2.1 Day Hike: Tashan Trail to Mt. Data
Mt. Data is the sacred mountain of the Tsao people in Alishan. This trail is located within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area. The footpath is well-marked, and the views from the top are stunning. It's one of the best places to see Yushan from a distance.
2.2 The Mianyue Line Day Hike
The Mianyue Line is considered one of the most beautiful rail trails in Taiwan. To access it, you first hike 2 kilometers along the Tashan Trail before turning onto the Mianyue Line. It's important to note that you need to apply for a permit to enter the Taiwan Aspidistra Nature Reserve in order to reach Shihou Station.
2.3 Roaming in the Tea Plantation: From Shizhuo Trails to Fenqihu - Mt. Dadong Trail
How can you explore Alishan's tea plantations and visit the renowned Fenqihu Forest Train Station in one adventure? The answer is simple: connect the trails!
Fenqihu, a historic gem of the Alishan Forest Railway, is famous for its nostalgic charm, traditional bento boxes, and cultural significance. By linking scenic trails, I hiked through lush tea plantations that produce some of Taiwan's finest high-mountain teas. These rolling green fields offer stunning views of misty valleys, tranquil paths, and the refreshing scent of tea leaves.
2.4 Tefuye Historic Trail and the Extended Hike to Mt. Zhizhong
Tefuye Historice Trail offers a serene and captivating journey through the rich natural and cultural history of Alishan. Originally used by the Tsou Indigenous people, the trail allows hikers to traverse dense cedar and cypress forests while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the surrounding mountains.
For adventurers looking for a more challenging experience, the trail provides access to Mt. Zhizhong. This extension features steep ascents and rugged terrain, delivering an exhilarating climb and a satisfying sense of accomplishment.
2.5 Eryanping Trail: A 2-hour Hike to Experience the Sea of Clouds and Enjoy Sunset/Sunrise (Post Coming Soon)
The Eryanping Trail may be short, but its beauty will leave a lasting impression, making it hard to pull yourself away. This trail becomes a magical destination during winter, renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and the mesmerizing sea of clouds that roll across the Alishan mountains.
2.6 Hiking Yushan: A 2-Day Journey to Taiwan's Highest Peak
Without a doubt, Yushan, also known as Jade Mountain, is Taiwan's most iconic and popular hiking destination. Standing at 3,952 meters, it provides breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience for adventurers.
If you're fortunate enough to secure a permit, consider maximizing your trip by combining your Yushan hike with a visit to Alishan. The driving time from Alishan to Shangdongpu is around 30 minutes if you drive. Therefore, you can explore scenic trails and lush tea plantations, enhancing your hiking holiday in Taiwan.
Here's the thorough checklist that saves you 3+ hours of Googling. With those checklists, you will know what to do for your hikes within 10 minutes:
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3. Alishan Seasonal Highlights
Alishan is renowned for a variety of attractions, including its stunning sunrises and sunsets, the charming forest railway, majestic giant trees, a breathtaking sea of clouds, vibrant cherry blossoms, and picturesque tea plantations. However, some of these highlights are seasonal and depend on the weather.
Forest Railway: Operates All Year Around
Cherry Blossoms: Bloom March and April
Expect large crowds and traffic jams during the blossom season. Hotel bookings can be challenging, and rates are often significantly higher than usual. Check Alishan National Scenic Area's website for when the season starts.
Firefly Watching: Best During Late Spring and Early Summer
Fall Foliage
Sea of Clouds: from September to February
Tea Plantation
Tea is harvested year-round in Alishan, but the finest quality is produced in winter. If you're a tea enthusiast, be sure to try Alishan tea!
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4. Alishan Hiking Guide: Plan Your Trip with Transport, Stays & Itineraries (Coming Soon)
Public Transport
- Take Alishan Route A (7329、7329A) from Chiayi High-speed Raiway Station.
- Take Alishan Route B (7322C or 7322D) from Chiayi Train Station.
- Take Kuokuang Bus 1835 from Taipei Bus Station.
- Take Sun Moon Lake Alishan Route (Bus 6739).
Where to Stay in Alishan
Accommodations within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area are highly sought after but often fully booked. As an alternative, consider staying in Fenqihu, though keep in mind that public transport options to this area are limited.
For more flexibility, you might want to look into staying in Shizhuo 石棹, Siding 隙頂, or Eryanping 二延平. These locations provide convenient access to hiking trails and scenic spots. Support Taiwan Hikes by booking through our affiliate link on KKday to make your trip even more rewarding!
How Many Days Should I Stay in Alishan: Alishan Hiking Guide
Driving to Alishan takes at least three hours, so it is advisable to stay for at least two days. To explore the hidden beauty of Alishan through its breathtaking hiking trails, which feature misty mountains, lush tea plantations and more, we have created a guide to help you save time on research and planning.
This guide highlights the best routes for discovering Alishan's natural wonders, offering options ranging from tranquil paths to challenging climbs. Whether you want to chase the sunrise, trek historic trails, or connect with nearby peaks, let this guide be your gateway to an unforgettable adventure in Taiwan.
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Please also note that Taiwanese government agencies tend to change their URLs without bothering to redirect to the new ones. As a result, you will find some external sites on the Taiwan Hikes website are not working from time to time. Taiwan Hikes will try to update those URLs if possible.
Taiwan Hikes is not responsible for the content of external sites.
All content provided is for inspirational and informational purposes only. Creating, using, hiking, or traveling with Taiwan Hikes' suggested services or itineraries is at your own risk. Please use your best judgment and follow all safety precautions, as Taiwan Hikes and Anusha Lee are not liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from using this information.
Please also note that Taiwanese government agencies tend to change their URLs without bothering to redirect to the new ones. As a result, you will find some external sites on the Taiwan Hikes website are not working from time to time. Taiwan Hikes will try to update those URLs if possible.
Taiwan Hikes is not responsible for the content of external sites.
